Into the Ordinary: The Divine in the Everyday

Approximately 20 years ago, I was in a Dollar store in South Haven, MI with a friend of mine. Inspired by a story I had recently read about a couple hiding an item in their home throughout their marriage just for fun, I decided to start the same tradition in our home.

I searched the store high and low for the ugliest item I could find. That was the day, “BF (Biker Frog)” joined our family. As I slapped down my dollar + tax on the counter, I quietly welcomed BF to the Tupper marriage. I named the game the “forever game,” between Michael and I. Since I did not foresee our relationship ever ending, I could not think of a better name. And IF our relationship did ever end, I was quite sure I would have no hesitation relinquishing custody of the item to Michael.

Fortunately, BF is still a part of our family. He has traveled in briefcases, pillowcases, perched on top of lamps, pianos, sat next to coffeecups in cupboards, hidden in boots, shoes, sock drawers, couch cushions, on top of computers, office drawers, and after spending almost a month beside the garden tub that Michael uses several times a week, I found him this morning in my microwave. I always find a smile on my face when I find him because I know Michael was thinking intently about me when hewas looking for the best place to hide him. So, for today anyway, I am so thankful for delightfuldistractions that raise the quality of my life on a journey where that is a constant concern. Today, I am so thankful for the ugliest thing I could find at a Dollar store 20 years ago and that on that day that Biker Frog joined our family, “forever” as a delightful distraction.

​Lori taught special education and regular education for 24 years, was a church secretary for six years and is presently retired. Her most challenging task of late has been fighting breast cancer at age 58.